Crash Type Analysis

Provided below are the definitions of the 12 crash types groups included in the PEDSAFE application. These definitions are from the PBCAT software.5 For any crash type, there are multiple problems or possible causes that may have led to the crash. The following section also provides examples of a few possible causes/problems for each crash type and some of the countermeasures within PEDSAFE that may be applicable. At the end of each potential countermeasure is the number in parentheses, which is linked to the countermeasure description. Neither the list of problems and possible causes nor the suggested countermeasures are to be considered comprehensive. Practitioners are required to supplement the analysis and recommendations with their own investigations and knowledge of local policies and practices.

All numbers in parentheses under the Countermeasures heading are linked to the Countermeasure section of the PEDSAFE website.

1. Dart/Dash

The pedestrian walked or ran into the roadway at an intersection or midblock location and was struck by a vehicle. The motorist’s view of the pedestrian may have been blocked until an instant before the impact.

Pedestrian walking into the roadway at a midblock location and into the path of a vehicle.

2. Multiple Threat/Trapped

The pedestrian entered the roadway in front of stopped or slowed traffic and was struck by a multiple-threat vehicle in an adjacent lane after becoming trapped in the middle of the roadway.

Pedestrian walking into the roadway, in front of stopped or slowed traffic, and into the path of a vehicle in the adjacent lane.

Possible Cause/Problem #1 (multiple threat):
The pedestrian entered the traffic lane in front of stopped traffic and was struck by a vehicle traveling in the same direction as the stopped vehicle. The stopped vehicle may have blocked the visibility between the pedestrian and the striking vehicle, and/or the motorist may have been speeding.

Adopt an ice-cream truck ordinance. This ordinance would prohibit motorists from passing a stopped ice-cream truck. Trucks would be equipped with flashing lights and a “stop” arm that would extend when the truck stopped to serve children.

5. Bus-Related

The pedestrian was struck by a vehicle while: (1) crossing in front of a public bus stopped at a bus stop; (2) going to or from a school bus stop; or (3) going to or from, or waiting near a public bus stop.

A pedestrian was struck by a vehicle while crossing in front of a public bus stopped at a bus stop..

Possible Cause/Problem #1:
Motorist fails to yield to pedestrian or pedestrian crosses during inadequate gap in traffic due to limited sight distance at intersection.

9. Working/Playing in Road

A vehicle struck a pedestrian who was: (1) standing or walking near a disabled vehicle, (2) riding a play vehicle that was not a bicycle (e.g., wagon, sled, tricycle, skates), (3) playing in the road, or (4) working in the road.